Abstract: A defibrillation method and apparatus are described for delivering a desired quantity of electric charge to a patient. The method and apparatus are applicable both to external defibrillation and to defibrillation by an implanted device. The method includes determining one or more intended waveform parameters based on the desired quantity of electric charge and, optionally, on one or more patient impedance values. A defibrillation waveform is then generated and applied to the patient based on the intended waveform parameters. The patient impedance values may be predetermined or operator-selected, or the method may include the step of determining the patient impedance values. Patient impedance values may be determined prior to, substantially contemporaneous with, and/or during application of the defibrillation waveform to the patient.

Abstract: A defibrillation method and apparatus are described for delivering a desired quantity of electric charge to a patient. The method and apparatus are applicable both to external defibrillation and to defibrillation by an implanted device. The desired quantity of electric charge may be predetermined or it may be operator-selected. The method includes determining one or more intended waveform parameters based on the desired quantity of electric charge and, optionally, on one or more patient impedance values. A defibrillation waveform is then generated and applied to the patient based on the intended waveform parameters. The patient impedance values may be predetermined or operator-selected, or the method may include the step of determining the patient impedance values. Patient impedance values may be determined prior to, substantially contemporaneous with, and/or during application of the defibrillation waveform to the patient.